Building Futures – Providence, RI
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Rhode Island / Building Futures – Providence, RI
Program Information
Building Futures is a nonprofit organization dedicated to meeting employer needs for skilled workers through Registered Apprenticeship, creating equitable paths to family-sustaining careers for Rhode Islanders. The organization offers a comprehensive pre-apprenticeship program that prepares individuals for careers in the construction trades and other high-demand industries.
Programs Offered
- Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Program: A five-week training cycle covering safety, construction work environment, construction math, tools, equipment, materials, and an introduction to specific trades. Successful participants are placed into employment in a Registered Apprenticeship with employers signatory to the Rhode Island Building and Construction Trades Council (RIBCTC).
- Apprenticeship Rhode Island: An initiative that works with employers to design, launch, and operate Registered Apprenticeship Programs tailored to various industries, including healthcare, early childhood education, landscaping, advanced manufacturing, marine trades, and more.
- Women Are Building RI: A program focused on increasing the participation of women in the construction trades through targeted outreach and support.
- Apprenticeship Utilization Program: A program that ensures construction projects provide employment opportunities for apprentices at appropriate levels to meet future demand for skilled labor.
Program Length
The Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Program is a five-week, full-time training program running Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, totaling 200 hours.
Certifications & Career Opportunities
Upon completion of the pre-apprenticeship program, participants earn the following credentials:
- RI State Apprenticeship Council Certification
- Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWPS) Operator Certification
- Adult CPR, AED, and First Aid Certifications
- OSHA 10 Certification
- Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3) Certification
Graduates are placed into Registered Apprenticeship programs in various trades, leading to careers in construction, healthcare, manufacturing, and other industries.
Program Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Possess a high school diploma or equivalent
- Be a Rhode Island resident
- Demonstrate interest and motivation to enter an apprenticeship
- Successfully complete a drug screening
Application Process
Prospective participants must attend an orientation session, after which they undergo assessments and interviews to determine eligibility. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with the next orientation scheduled for Summer.
Financial Aid & Support Services
The pre-apprenticeship program is offered at no cost to participants. Building Futures provides support services, including case management, career counseling, job interview coaching, and assistance with transportation and other living expenses during training.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Building Futures – Providence, RI is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in Carpentry.
- Paid on-the-job training with step increases as you progress
- Classroom / technical instruction is part of the program structure
- Training costs are often low — but you may still pay for tools, books, or fees
- Credential earned at completion is recognized by employers in the industry
Registered apprenticeships are overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency. Because these programs aren’t traditional colleges, College Scorecard tuition and earnings data usually doesn’t apply.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.